Customs Clearances

Service Shipping makes the process of clearing your imported freight through customs go fast and smoothly. We can provide a customs clearance at any port in the U.S. for just about any type of freight. We specialize in hard to clear import shipments. Our expert staff will educate, guide and streamline the process of getting your freight imported and cleared through customs quickly and efficiently.

Our turn key operation allows you to have a single source for the foreign Ex-Works coordination of your cargo, timely filing of the required Importer Security Filing(ISF), insurance, customs clearance, and door delivery of your cargo. Whatever your needs are as dictated by your specific Incoterm, we can fulfill those requirements.

What is a customs clearance?

A Customs Clearance is an electronic transmission sent by a customs broker to U.S. Customs & Border Protection to release cargo into the commerce of the USA. In order to obtain this release of your goods into the country, information about your shipment is submitted to the government for their release. Taxes (Specifically Duty and User Fees), are due and paid as a result of the release of the merchandise. Payment is due prior to delivery, unless terms have been arranged prior to release.

Customs Clearance for ALL Ports within the U.S. (including, but not limited to)

Documents Needed for Customs Clearances

Power of Attorney - Document provided by Service Shipping filled out by the importer giving us legal permission to classify and clear import freight through customs. It also allows us to pay duty on your behalf that is owed. Download Power of Attorney Form

Commercial Invoice - Document detailing the origin, description, weight, quantity and any other information pertaining to the contents of your import freight. This can be generated by either the sender or receiver of the freight. Download Commercial Invoice Form

Bill of Lading/Airway Bill - Document provided by the shipping line or airfreight carrier confirming that your freight is in their possession and in transit. It provides a tracking number and an arrival notice when your freight has arrived at the port of destination.